Mildew vs. Mold: Signs & Impact on Shreveport Businesses

Mold and mildew are common problems in commercial properties, especially in humid climates like Shreveport. Whether it's a damp basement, an improperly ventilated storage area, or hidden moisture in the walls, these fungal growths can quickly spread and cause property damage. Understanding the difference between mold and mildew is essential for effective prevention and remediation.

In this guide, we’ll cover what makes mold and mildew different, where they commonly appear in commercial spaces, and what steps you should take to protect your property. If you suspect an issue, knowing how to respond quickly can save your business from costly damage and health hazards. At Putman Restoration, we specialize in helping businesses identify, remove, and prevent mold and mildew infestations.

Comparing Mold and Mildew

A Closer Look at Mildew

Mildew is a surface-level fungus that typically appears as a white, gray, or yellowish powdery substance. Unlike mold, mildew does not penetrate deep into materials, making it easier to remove. It thrives in damp, warm environments and is commonly found on organic materials like paper, fabric, leather, and even drywall if moisture levels remain high.

One of the easiest ways to identify mildew is by its musty odor and flat, spreading appearance. It tends to grow on surfaces that remain wet or humid for prolonged periods, such as bathroom tiles, windowsills, and poorly ventilated storage areas. While mildew is less destructive than mold, it still poses a risk to indoor air quality and can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Regular cleaning and moisture control are key to keeping mildew at bay in commercial spaces.

A Closer Look at Mold

Mold is a more invasive type of fungus that can appear in various colors, including black, green, brown, or even red. Unlike mildew, mold grows deep into porous materials like drywall, wood, and carpeting, making it much harder to eliminate. If left unchecked, mold can weaken structures, cause persistent musty odors, and pose significant health risks to employees and customers.

Mold spreads by releasing airborne spores, which can easily travel through HVAC systems and settle in different areas of a building. It thrives in areas with excess moisture, such as basements, attics, crawl spaces, and areas affected by leaks or flooding. 

Businesses in Shreveport should be particularly vigilant, as high humidity levels create the perfect conditions for mold growth. If mold is present in your building, professional remediation is often necessary to fully remove the infestation and prevent regrowth.

Key Differences Between Mold and Mildew

Appearance and Texture

One of the main ways to distinguish mold from mildew is by appearance and texture. 

Mildew remains flat and powdery, often forming in small patches on damp surfaces. It typically looks white, gray, or yellow and can be wiped away fairly easily. Mold, on the other hand, has a raised, fuzzy, or slimy texture. Depending on the species, mold can appear in various colors, including black, green, or brown. 

Unlike mildew, mold growth often spreads in irregular patterns and penetrates deeply into materials, making it much harder to remove with simple cleaning solutions. If you notice dark, fuzzy patches that continue to grow despite regular cleaning, it’s likely mold rather than mildew.

Growth Patterns and Damage

Mildew tends to grow on the surface of materials, which means it’s less destructive and easier to eliminate. A commercial cleaning solution or a mixture of vinegar and water can usually remove mildew from most non-porous surfaces like tile, glass, and metal.

Mold, however, presents a much greater risk to your property. Because it spreads beneath the surface, mold can cause significant structural damage to drywall, wood, and even concrete over time. If mold growth isn’t addressed quickly, it can lead to costly repairs and even require full replacement of contaminated materials. Also, mold can cause persistent air quality issues that affect employee productivity and customer health.

Where Mold & Mildew Can be Found

Certain areas in commercial buildings are more prone to mold and mildew due to constant moisture exposure. Bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry facilities are among the most common trouble spots. Steam from showers, dishwashers, and washing machines creates condensation that can settle on walls, ceilings, and floors, providing the perfect environment for fungal growth.

Basements and storage areas are also high-risk zones for mold and mildew growth, especially if they lack proper ventilation. These spaces tend to have poor airflow and can retain excess humidity, making them a prime breeding ground for fungi. Cardboard boxes, wooden shelves, and stored fabrics are particularly susceptible to mildew development if moisture levels remain unchecked.

Steps to Take if You Suspect Mold or Mildew in Your Business

If you suspect mold or mildew growth in your commercial space, taking swift action can prevent further damage and exposure risks. Start by inspecting areas prone to excess moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and HVAC systems. Look for visible discoloration, musty odors, or unexplained allergic symptoms among employees.

Next, avoid disturbing the affected areas, as mold spores can become airborne and spread to other parts of your building. Instead, contact a professional mold remediation team like Putman Restoration for a thorough assessment. Our experts use advanced detection tools, including moisture meters and air quality tests, to identify hidden mold growth and determine the extent of contamination.

Protect Your Shreveport Business with Putman Restoration

Even with the best preventative measures, mold and mildew can still develop in commercial buildings, especially in a humid climate like Shreveport. If you suspect mold or mildew growth in your property, taking quick action is essential to minimizing damage and avoiding disruptions to your business. That’s where our team at Putman Restoration comes in.

Shreveport’s Trusted Mold and Mildew Remediation Experts

With advanced detection tools and industry-leading remediation methods, we ensure that all mold and mildew are eliminated at the source. Whether your business is dealing with minor surface-level mildew or widespread mold contamination, we have the expertise to restore your property safely and efficiently.

Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a major problem—contact us online today or call us at 318-515-7981 for expert mold and mildew remediation services that keep your business safe and mold-free.